New Delhi: India and France are advancing their defence collaboration, focusing on several key projects involving Rafale aircraft systems, helicopter engines, and missile technology.
They are working together on the RBE2 radar systems used in Rafale jets. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has recently delivered its 7,000th transmit/receive module for the RBE2 radar, which is crucial for enhancing the radar’s capabilities. This collaboration aligns with India’s “Make in India” initiative and has been ongoing since 2017, showcasing significant technology transfer and local manufacturing efforts.
The RBE2 radar, primarily used in Rafale jets, has several key features that enhance the aircraft’s capabilities. The RBE2 AA is an active electronically scanned array radar, offering improved performance over its predecessor. It has a detection range of over 200 km, allowing the Rafale to use long-range air-to-air missiles like Meteor. The range has been increased by more than 50% compared to previous-generation fire control radars.
The radar enhances situational awareness through early detection and tracking of multiple air targets. The pilot can switch between exploring airspace and ground strike missions instantly, reinforcing the Rafale’s omnirole capacity. The Rafale also includes passive sensor systems like the Front Sector Optronics (OSF), which can detect and identify airborne, naval, and land targets discreetly.
The collaboration between Safran and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is poised to significantly impact the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project in several ways.
Safran and DRDO are jointly developing a 110kN high-thrust engine specifically for the AMCA Mk-2. This engine will provide a substantial performance upgrade over existing models, enabling the aircraft to meet the demands of a 5th generation stealth fighter. All components of the new engine will be manufactured in India, aligning with the “Make in India” initiative and fostering domestic production capabilities. This local manufacturing commitment is crucial for enhancing India’s self-reliance in defence technology.
The partnership includes shared intellectual property rights, which will allow India to develop its own capabilities in high-thrust engine production without relying solely on foreign technology. This aspect is vital for India’s long-term strategic autonomy in defence manufacturing.
The collaboration is expected to expedite the development timeline of the AMCA program. With both parties working to finalise frameworks for engine co-development, the contract for the engine’s development is anticipated to be signed in 2025, thus keeping the project on track for its planned production start around 2035.
